Mastering Assessment Centre Exercises for UN Competitive Exams
Assessment centres are a crucial part of the UN's competitive examination process. They are designed to evaluate a candidate's competencies, skills, and potential beyond traditional written tests. Understanding the nature of these exercises and how to prepare effectively can significantly boost your chances of success.
What are Assessment Centre Exercises?
Assessment centres simulate real-world work scenarios to observe how candidates perform under pressure and in team settings. They typically involve a series of exercises designed to assess specific competencies, such as problem-solving, communication, leadership, teamwork, and analytical thinking. The UN uses these exercises to identify individuals who possess the core values and competencies required for international public service.
Common Types of Assessment Centre Exercises
While the exact format can vary, several common exercise types are frequently employed by the UN and other international organizations. Familiarizing yourself with these will help you anticipate what to expect.
| Exercise Type | Description | Competencies Assessed |
|---|---|---|
| In-tray/E-tray Exercise | Candidates are presented with a simulated inbox of emails, memos, and documents and must prioritize and respond to them within a time limit. | Prioritization, time management, decision-making, written communication, problem-solving. |
| Group Discussion | Candidates discuss a given topic or problem in a small group, often with no designated leader, to observe their interaction and contribution. | Teamwork, communication, influencing, leadership, problem-solving, active listening. |
| Role Play | Candidates take on specific roles to interact with an assessor or another candidate in a simulated scenario. | Interpersonal skills, negotiation, conflict resolution, empathy, communication. |
| Presentation | Candidates are given a topic or case study to research and present to a panel of assessors. | Analytical skills, communication (verbal and visual), confidence, subject matter expertise. |
| Case Study Analysis | Candidates analyze a complex business or policy problem and propose solutions, often in written or presentation format. | Analytical thinking, problem-solving, strategic thinking, decision-making, written communication. |
| Psychometric Tests | These can include aptitude tests (numerical, verbal, abstract reasoning) and personality questionnaires. | Cognitive abilities, personality traits, behavioural tendencies. |
Strategies for Effective Preparation
Preparation is key to performing well in assessment centres. It's not about memorizing answers but about understanding the underlying principles and practicing your skills.
Understand the Competencies
The UN clearly outlines the core competencies it seeks in its staff. Research these competencies thoroughly and reflect on how your past experiences demonstrate them. Examples include: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Planning and Organizing, Communication, Teamwork, Accountability, and Judgment.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Familiarize yourself with the common exercise types by practicing. Use online resources, mock assessment centres, or study groups. For group discussions, practice active listening and constructive contribution. For in-tray exercises, focus on time management and prioritization techniques. For case studies, practice breaking down complex problems and structuring your analysis.
Develop Your Communication Skills
Clear, concise, and confident communication is vital. Practice articulating your thoughts logically, both verbally and in writing. Pay attention to your non-verbal cues, such as body language and eye contact.
Simulate the Environment
If possible, simulate the assessment centre environment. Practice under timed conditions and in a setting that mimics the pressure of an actual assessment. This helps build resilience and reduces anxiety on the day.
Research the UN's Values and Mission
Understanding the UN's mission, values, and current priorities will help you frame your responses and demonstrate alignment with the organization's goals. This context is often implicitly or explicitly tested.
During the Assessment Centre
On the day of the assessment, remember to stay calm, be yourself, and engage actively. Listen carefully to instructions, ask clarifying questions if needed, and strive to demonstrate the required competencies consistently.
The assessment centre is an opportunity to showcase your potential. Approach it with confidence and a genuine desire to demonstrate your suitability for a career with the United Nations.
Post-Assessment Reflection
Regardless of the outcome, reflect on your performance. Identify areas where you excelled and areas for improvement. This self-awareness is invaluable for future career development and applications.
Learning Resources
Official UN documentation outlining the core competencies expected of all UN staff members. Essential for understanding what assessors are looking for.
A comprehensive PDF guide from UN Careers providing insights into assessment centre exercises and preparation strategies.
A detailed blog post explaining various assessment centre exercises and offering practical tips for preparation, applicable to UN exams.
A helpful video tutorial that breaks down common assessment centre exercises and provides actionable advice for candidates.
Focuses specifically on group exercises, a common component of assessment centres, offering strategies for effective participation.
A guide to understanding and practicing in-tray (or e-tray) exercises, a frequent assessment centre task.
Understanding the foundational values and principles of the UN is crucial for aligning your responses and demonstrating cultural fit.
Learn structured approaches to analyzing case studies, a skill often tested in assessment centres.
Provides insights into how role-play exercises are used and how to approach them effectively to showcase your interpersonal skills.
While focused on interviews, this article explains the STAR method and how to structure answers to demonstrate competencies, a principle vital for assessment centre exercises.